On Easter Sunday I had one of those beautiful days that are hard to forget. I was alone again after a visit from a dear friend and her daughter the week prior. I was determined not to feel let down after they left and the sunny, warm day helped me along. I had considered attending an Easter mass at Pontmain or another beautiful cathedral I had visited before. Ultimately, I decided I would rather go to my “church” and take my puppy along. That meant, I was headed outside to immerse myself in the woods and fields that surround my home.

I started out on a 4 mile hike around my village that would take me through woods, and trails and past pastures. The sun was shining and Sophie and I passed feels of golden rape, cows and sheep. When we turned into the trails, I noticed more green leaves and buds on the trees, blossoming fruit trees, and new wild flowers springing up. Sophie ran along the trails sniffing and listening to me talk to her as I am am apt to do.

When we arrived home, it was my intention to start working in the garden but then the sun made me sleepy so Sophie and I laid down in the grass and soaked up the sun while listening to the birds and bugs buzzing around us. After a short picnic, I began pruning my bushes and planted out my carrots and radish rows in my veggie garden.

Hesitant to go inside, I pulled my bike out of the garage and decided to ride a short loop past Les Jardins Renaudies. There had been signs posted about an egg hunt being held there so I figured it might be fun to ride by. I don’t think I can describe my ride as anything but enchanting. It was an easy track and I felt like I spent as much time coasting as pedaling. I passed green fields, yellow fields and some that were just planted. I saw baby cows, lambs and ponies.

I actually thought to myself, “this has got be close to my version of heaven”. The air smelled sweet with blossoms, the sun was shining and there was so much beauty everywhere I looked. I am so lucky. This year, there were no baskets, ham, or egg hunts and I was not surrounded by the family I miss dearly. Instead though, I found a slice of heaven in the “church” that is now my home. Happy Easter.